Malicious software, also known as malware, is a general term often used to describe any threat your computer may have from an infected software. Computer viruses, spyware, Trojans, and worms can all fit under the blanket of malware.
Malware started to make its way out into the world in the early 80s but became more prevalent in the late 1990s and early 2000s when personal computers became more common.
Computer viruses and worms are some of the more common types of malware. Viruses and worms are created to spread through a user’s computer without the owner’s knowledge. They can lay dormant, hidden in a file or program, and can be triggered once the user activates the program.
Other common malware types are keyloggers, which log keystrokes as the user types on their computer, often storing passwords, social security numbers, or pin codes.
Each type of malware is different and can require different software programs to remove.
If you think that you have any malware on your computer, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional to ensure that each type is removed, no matter how deep it is hidden in your machine.
